Wednesday, October 29, 2014

Serengeti Elephant Chronicles

While Tarangire National Park may boast the highest density of elephants, Serengeti can absolutely boast the most dramatic. We have their exclusive stories here on the Elephant Chronicles: The Serengeti Chapter.

Meet Stumpy. He is a subadult male African elephant. He is like all the other elephants except the unnaturally short length of his trunk, the origin of which is unknown. Was is a genetic mishap or a tragic attack by a crocodile? He refused comment simply saying, "I've learned to live with my disability and I refuse to let it define me. I am a strong independent elephant and I don't need a trunk to be who I am inside."

He hopes to someday move out of his maternal herd and start a family of his own and teach his little ones the true meaning of strength.

You may be surprised to learn that elephants are rather top heavy. This makes it extremely difficult to stand up after lying down for a siesta in the mud.

These sisters had a rather difficult time but as always, they lean on each other for constant support.

As wonderful as sisters are, sometimes you just need Mom's help to get you out of sticky situations.

"Again Clarissa?"

Remember these fellas?

They have learned to not mess with mama elephants. This herd of ladies and babies crossed the river and made a beeline for the snoozing bachelors.

"5 more minutes!"

They had no intentions of stopping or changing their course.

"Alright! Alright! We're up!"

These boys were in no mood for a fight. They just wanted their nap. They walked about 20-30 meters before flopping back into the grass.

This river is a hot spot for elephant glamour shots.

The setting sun adds the perfect backdrop for any family photo...

And certainly the perfect end to any trip to Serengeti.

Thus ends this episode of the elephant chronicles and my time in Serengeti. I have been so abundantly blessed to spend three whole months in this beautiful country. As classes end and we move into our research phase of this semester, I pray I continue to learn something new everyday.